Moving to the UK

In 1997, when I was considering a move to the United Kingdom (UK), there were no guides, no tips, no website communities where I could ask my questions. I was on my own and I had to wing it. I didn’t know what to expect, all I knew of the UK was tv/movies, and what my British fiance told me. Of course he was totally biased and painted a rosy picture of what it was like in the UK.

There were a few visits before the actual move, but I was completely unprepared for what was in store. After I arrived and got terribly homesick between the third and sixth months, I channeled that anxious energy and started working on a website to fill the void and help others just like us.

Why Move to the UK?

The UK attracts migrants and visitors alike from around the world.  Americans consider moving to the UK for many reasons and in countless circumstances. Many come to work or study abroad, some come for love or family, and others come to experience and explore a country rich in culture, history, and atmosphere. For some, it’s a dream to live abroad and experience more of the world.

Understanding the Challenges of Moving Abroad

While the idea of moving to the UK is an exciting prospect, it is more complicated than some people realize. It’s important to know that there are many challenges and struggles along the way. If you qualify for a visa, the procedural red tape can cause problems, delays, and may seem to take forever. Some wait months, and even years to get through the visa process.

First Things First: Understanding the Visa Requirements

You need to qualify for a visa to move to the UK! Be sure to do your research before making plans and booking flights, you may not qualify or the cost may be a significant barrier. With all of the visa categories, it is essential to prove that you will not need to be supported by state funds (welfare) and that you have somewhere appropriate to live.

It is important to note that not just *any* job can get you a work permit, and a casual relationship (ie one where you have not been living together and do not yet intend to marry) will not give you enough ties to emigrate.

This is a challenging process, so buckle up.

Most Important – Be Prepared!

Our UK Visas & Immigration section will provide more information about the different visa categories, and give links to government sites which contain the more detailed information you will need. This is provided as general information, and everyone’s situation is different.

If you have questions about the general process, please check on our dedicated UK Visa discussion board. Most typical visa applications do not need a lawyer, but if you have more complicated situation, you should probably consider one, at least for a consultation. 

Over the past twenty years, the majority of the expats in our community have moved because they fell in love with a British Citizen, either in real life or online. They endured months or years of long distance relationships for love, waiting to save for visa costs and then processing time. Sometimes it didn’t work out, sometimes it fell apart. So always have a contingency plan, a Plan B.

Whatever your reason for moving abroad, this journey has ups and downs, and is an experience that expats uniquely share, with its highs and lows. You will adapt, and change as you experience the expat life. This quote from renowned chef and travel documentarian sums it up, because I am not the same person that got on that plane with a only a couple of suitcases in 1999.

Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life — and travel — leaves marks on you.

– Anthony Bourdain